Jesse Xiong, 28

January 15, 1995 - December 12, 2023

With heavy hearts, we announce the unexpected passing of Jesse Xiong on December 12, 2023, while on vacation with his friends in the Poconos, PA.

Jesse’s journey, which began on January 15, 1995, was a testament to adventure, kindness, and an extraordinary ability to forge connections with others.

A private memorial service was held on December 18, 2023, attended by family, friends, teachers, and parents of his friends, all gathered to mourn his untimely departure. Throughout the service, those who knew Jesse intimately shared stories from different phases of his life, all bearing a common theme: Jesse had an enduring and positive impact on countless lives. He was described as magnetic, generous, genuine, kind, and exceptional – embodying qualities rarely found in a single individual.

At the end of the funeral, one of Jesse’s parents’ close friends summarized that Jesse accomplished more than most will ever do.

Jesse’s academic and professional achievements mirrored his remarkable character. At Hempfield High School, he was elected as class president by his nearly 700 classmates for four consecutive years, evidence to his stewardship, empathy, charisma, and connection ability with people from all walks of life. His relentless pursuit of knowledge and excellence led him to the University of Delaware Honors College, where he earned a merit scholarship. In 2017, he graduated with double majors in International Business and Marketing, accompanied by a minor in Chinese, while actively engaging in campus life. He was a beloved brother of the Alpha Kappa Psi professional business fraternity, a trusted peer mentor, and the founder and president of the Shambala@UD benevolence fund, dedicated to extending crucial financial aid to orphaned organizations, nurturing hope for a brighter future in their lives.

Jesse’s internship and professional experiences were equally noteworthy. During his sophomore year, he interned at TD Bank, where he devised a method that significantly improved a group’s project efficiency. His contributions were so outstanding that he was dispatched to New England to meet with a TD Bank executive. She was eager to tap into Jesse’s insights and innovative thinking to further enhance the bank’s operations. Jesse’s capabilities left a strong impression, and during this meeting, an informal offer for a fulltime position with the bank was extended to him.

Jesse was employed by JP Morgan Chase after completing his internship during his junior summer break. Throughout his tenure, he embraced various roles in operations, marketing, agility, public relations, and communications, demonstrating versatility and commitment. According to one of his managers, Jesse exhibited qualities that greatly benefited the teams he worked with. He seamlessly collaborated with colleagues, displaying a remarkable ability to function as a team player with his superior interpersonal skills. Notably, Jesse consistently maintained a high level of reliability and productivity, demonstrating the capacity to perform effectively with minimal supervision.

Since his college days, Jesse had been at the forefront of blockchain education and advocacy. He served as the former Global Director of Community at the Blockchain Education Network, where he orchestrated events to educate newcomers to the blockchain realm. He co-founded BlockHack, an organization with a mission to train future blockchain developers and implement innovative blockchain concepts. In 2018, he organized Delaware’s First Blockchain Hackathon, indicating his commitment to advancing the technology. Among his numerous accomplishments, one standout achievement was winning first place at Philly Codefest in 2018 with his team, Team SAFE. Together, they created an iOS application designed to provide real-time active shooter alerts, guidance, instructions, and responses to prevent casualties in schools and offices. His involvement extends to various hackathons held globally, showcasing his skills and contributions in the tech and programming spheres.

John May, a mathematician and blockchain expert, who had been Jesse’s friend and roommate, praised “Jesse was a strong believer in potential of blockchain technology and cryptocurrency to empower local communities and individual liberty. He understood social coordination is equally important to the technology in allowing cryptocurrencies to function. He leveraged his considerable social talents to build communities through his work with BEN and BlockHack, bringing together a diverse group of creative thinkers and hackers.”

From a young age, Jesse was destined for a journey into the world of artistry. At the tender age of 5, he sat at the piano and began to play, a melody that would resonate throughout his life. By the age of 10, he had already taken up the drums, forging a rhythmic connection that would become an integral part of his identity. Jesse’s artistic talent wasn’t limited to music alone. His artistic creations garnered multiple accolades during his formative years, demonstrating his creative vision and dedication. In elementary school, he showcased his artistic prowess, painting a vivid canvas that foreshadowed his future endeavors.

Throughout his high school years, Jesse not only honed his musical skills but also shared his passion with others. As a dedicated member of Hempfield’s Dance Theatre for all four years, he not only graced the stage but also inspired numerous friends to embrace the world of dance. Jesse’s enthusiasm and magnetic energy were infectious, fostering a love for dance that transcended the stage.

After dedicating nearly five years of his career to JP Morgan, Jesse made a courageous decision to chase his dreams as a professional DJ. Under the stage name “Kidd Buddha,” he embarked on a musical journey aiming to infuse the dance floor with the vibrant energy of a drum circle. His composition was more than just rhythms; it was a belief that dance is a timeless ritual, uniting people and life forces in a profound, wordless connection. But Jesse’s artistic expression didn’t stop there. He recently adopted another alias, “EiaA,” which stood for “Everyone is an Artist.” This philosophy was at the core of Jesse’s being, a belief that an inventive spark existed within each of us, waiting to be awakened and shared with the world.

Michael Parks, a musician and DJ in Philadelphia, said: “Jesse was an integral part of Philadelphia’s underground electronic music scene and his contributions not only helped to shape the sound of this city but aided in the breakthrough of numerous talents. Jesse was a familiar face at many events this year, keeping smiles on the faces of others with his dance moves and making connections with many on the dance floor. When he wasn’t an attendee, Jesse would set up some of the years’ largest and most highly attended underground dance music events. He would move hundreds of pounds of equipment, water, and safety materials with little to no help and often for little to no pay. His every interaction with the scene was one of pure service, and love for those around him. His charity and warmth did not end here, as he began to prove himself as a formidable DJ and tastemaker to those in the know, lending his keen ear for electronic music and one of a kind taste to those on the dance floor for their enjoyment. This gained him spots on various lineups, such as the Somewhere in Philadelphia events, Hotel Canal, and Departed. Perhaps most heroic in this sphere was the time where at an event he helped organize, set up, and play at, Jesse took on the additional role as a medic when a crowd member began to experience a medical emergency. Jesse helped to administer first aid and drove this person safely to the hospital, his quick action saving their life. It was through his portrayal of music, and his active role in the non-glamorous side of event production, that Jesse touched the hearts and minds of thousands of people in the city of Philadelphia. We can only hope to continue to be able to perpetuate even a small portion of his charity, kindness, creativity, work ethic, and indomitable spirit.”

Jesse’s life overflowed with love from his family, companions, and all who crossed his path. He found joy in playing soccer, embracing the beauty of nature, and connecting with animals. His adventures in Asia, Europe, and South America allowed him to cherish the diverse experiences life offered. At home, Jesse was an exemplary son, displaying nearly flawless devotion to his parents. To his sisters, he was the epitome of an ideal brother. In Chinese, they affectionately referred to him as “Didi,” signifying the beloved little brother they cherished dearly. At 1 PM on December 12, 2023, merely an hour before his passing, Jesse made a phone call to his parents discussing the family’s holiday plans. His final words spoken over the phone were a wholehearted: “Love you too.”

Jesse’s untimely departure has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of all who knew him. He is survived by his loving family, devoted friends, and a global community that will forever be inspired by his extraordinary journey and boundless spirit.

Mike Payne, one of Jesse’s closest friends and roommate during the past years: “Jesse was the kindest and calmest person I have ever met, entirely genuine and patient in every setting, incredibly talented with nowhere to go but up. Jesse will continue to be an inspiration to so many people he touched.”

The memory of Jesse Xiong will endure as that of a beautiful soul who embraced life with fullness, purpose, passion, and an unyielding dedication to fostering positive change in the world.

Jesse will be forever young and forever in our hearts.

January 6, 2024, which would have been the date of Jesse/Kidd Buddha’s next performance in Philadelphia, will now serve as the date of tributes to Jesse. DJs will play Jesse’s music for the dance floor. A celebration of life will be held from 5 PM to 8 PM on January 6, 2024 in Philadelphia. Those interested in attending the event are encouraged to contact Maria at @mariamesias via Instagram for details.

For those wishing to reach out to Jesse’s family, please send your emails to: rememberjessedd@gmail.com